Baglihar a welcome step, handover other power stations to J

Srinagar, Oct 10 (UNI) Welcoming the inauguration of Baglihar hydroelectric project by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today, the Communist Party of India (M) demanded handing over of some more power projects to Jammu and Kashmir as was recommended by the Rangarajan commitee.

In a statement here today, the State Secretary, CPI(M), Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami said the project would give a momentum to the economy of the state.

He said the completion of phase first of the project, in addition to boosting the power generation, would also create much needed employment to a considerable section of youth of the state.

Mr Tarigami, however, said the implementation of Ranga Rajan recommendations, that have suggested handing over of some power projects to the state be ensured immediately.

He urged upon the authorities that the next of the kin of those labourers who lost their lives while working in the Baglihar power project be provided jobs in the project.

He urged for timely completion of Udhampur-Baramulla Railway project by removing the impediments in its execution and suggested for safeguarding the interests of the labourers engaged in Baglihar and Railway projects.

Besides taking concrete efforts for rapid development of the state, initiating a meaningful dialogue with the separatists was inevitable for amicable resolution of the issues pertaining to Jammu and Kashmir, Mr Tarigami said.

This, he said, would create a conducive environment for a logical dialogue.

He, however, added that the role of people of Jammu and Kashmir could not be marginalised in this regard.

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